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Japanese Nara Tour Guides

Due to high demand, we recommend that you use our date filter to make sure you view tours/guides that are available on your preferred dates.

Japan

Eric T.

Hallow ! This is Eric Tanaka. I was born in Kyoto, and I have been living in Kyoto. I am sure that Kyoto is one of the best city for sightseeing and living. I wish if I can introduce some nice places for you by walking around city streets. Also, in suburbs, there are a lot of nice sightseeing places such as Bamboo forest, Monkey park, Fushimi shrine, Zen practice temples and so on. Let's enjoy Kyoto town and Kyoto food.with me.

Japan

Hiroshi Y.

Hello,I am HIROSHI YOKOYAMA. Please call me Hiro, not "hero". I have been lived in kyoto for more than 30years. So, I am very familiar with the city of Kyoto and a unique culture developed in Japan as well. I can offer you not only historic places like Nijo castle, Kinkakuji temple ,Kiyomizu temple etc., but also off the beaten track spots Nijo jinya house or nicknamed "ninjya house" ,Katsura Imperial Villa etc.. I am really looking forward to seeing you .

Japan

Yoshihisa T.

Hi. My name is Yoshihisa. Call me "Yoshie", please. It means good or O.K. in Japanese. I live in Joyo City, Kyoto Prefecture, located just in between Kyoto and Nara. I was born and raised in Iga, Mie Prefecture. Iga is a birthplace of ninja and a renowned haiku poet, Matsuo Basho. I might be a descendant of ninja. I aim at becoming a linguistic ninja, following a part of Basho's lifestyle with the incorporation of seasonal changes into my tours. In addition to visiting famous temples and shrines, I invite you to lesser-known places of historic interest. Once in a month I go hiking or mountain climbing with some friends mainly in mountains surrounding Kyoto and Nara basins. Recently I have got intrigued by the charms of Buddhist statues, which are manifestations of people's wishes and prayers. I also like izakaya (Japanese-style taverns) hopping, tasting delicious dishes and locally brewed sake at reasonable prices. Especially I like communicating with people from home and abroad, talking face to face. Some of the above-mentioned elements are included in my walking tours. I hope you will discover new aspects of cultural and natural beauty in Kansai area through one of my tours which you could never gain otherwise. One of my favorite phrases that come from Zen Buddhism is Ichigo Ichie or this meeting-but only once in a lifetime. My interpretation goes this way: This place and this moment never cross again. Each and every good encounter, however, lingers on like the sound of a temple bell. Won't you explore a deeper world of Japanese culture in Kyoto, Nara and Osaka with me?

Japan

Tatsuhiro N.

It took me some 20 years to be qualified for this job and I feel honored for being able to help tourists from abroad understand our nation and culture. Japan is a beautiful country with a long history, tradition and rich cultural heritages, having various features in each of the four distinct seasons. Although there are now many visitors from abroad, mainly from Asian countries, they are mostly interested in shopping taking advantage of cheaper yen rather than understanding our people and culture. Kyoto and Nara are the two cities best known by foreign tourists, but not all the aspects of Japanese culture are concentrated there. If you visit the countryside other than these two cities, you will never fail to see the beautiful natural surroundings and people who will warmly welcome you. I wish to work as the bridge between Japanese people and tourists from all over the world.

Japan

Gary S.

As an inbound tour guide and outbound tour leader, I have had the honor of serving guests from over 56 countries. I specialize in both private tours and bus higaeri (one-day) tours for Japanese local tourism services. I am also proud to be a 5-star-reviewed tour guide on other platforms. I speak Japanese, English, Mandarin, and Cantonese—skills I developed during my long-term career as a project manager in international joint ventures requiring multilingual and cross-cultural communication. This enables me to interact smoothly with tourists from regions such as Taiwan, Hong Kong (SAR), and mainland China, as long as we share a common language like English. In addition, I’m currently studying French, Spanish, Italian, and German to deepen my understanding of diverse cultures and enhance the experience I provide. I believe in the importance of omoiyari—the Japanese concept of empathy and consideration—an essential trait cultivated through personal growth, social experience, and professional challenges. I always strive to stand in my guests' shoes and provide thoughtful, personalized service. I also bring a sense of humor and optimism to my work, guided by a strong belief in the power of trust, shaped by my interest in Buddhism, Shintoism, and Protestant Christianity. In August 2024, I joined my first Heiro tour led by Japanese trainers, a couple who became certified Heiro masters after completing the practice 11 times. This experience enriched both my spiritual perspective and cultural understanding.

Japan

Charley S.

Konnichiwa - - - Charley here. Originally, I grew up in Los Angeles and San Diego for the first quarter century of my life. In 2000, I moved to Aichi Prefecture, Japan. One of my main goals was to play music with Japanese musicians, particularly in the underground music scene, which I've been a part of throughout my life. Also, I wanted to enjoy and explore the beauty of living in a foreign country. I've been living here for 25 years, and can gladly say that I have been engaged thoroughly in both of those goals. Since the beginning of moving to Japan, I've always chosen to hang out and engage with Japanese people as opposed to other foreigners. I often find myself in izakaiyas and concert events where I am the only foreigner, but fortunately I am on good terms with the staff and other customers. So if you are looking to see the less touristy aspects of Japan, please feel free to get in touch with me and I would love to share what I have come to appreciate about Japan. Cheers !

Japan

Naoki H.

Hi! My name is Naoki, I was born and bred in Osaka. I have a reliable and friendly personality and always enjoy making people smile. I am a full time Experienced Tour Guide organizing and managing tours, not just in Osaka but all over the Kansai-area including Kyoto, Nara, Kobe and Hiroshima. I have experience in directly managing groups of over 500 travelers so far and also designing specific itineraries for different needs and sights. If you have any specific sights that you would like to see then please let me know and I will accommodate as many sites as possible into any tour. Outside of my tour guiding, I have had a career over 15 years in Japanese car logistics taking care of lots of international businesses which allows me to have a professional manner in face to face communication. Osaka is a brilliant city with long history, amazing street food, unique accent (so we have lots of comedians here!) and also known as the most friendly city in Japan. I would love to be the perfect companion for your visit to one of the best cities in Japan! I look forward to seeing you soon! Best Regards Naoki

Japan

Takashi M.

Hi, my name is Takashi!! When I go abroad, I think that how nice it would be to have a friend there and hang out together. I want you to feel like you have a friend in Osaka and we can go around and explore. I was born and grew up in Japan. And I speak English, Spanish and Japanese. I can be the perfect guide for you!! I can guide you in any city in Japan, just let me know where you wanna go :)

Japan

Makoto Y.

Hello, I’m Makoto (Mac) and I'm a national-licensed tour guide. My previous career as an automotive engineer, gave me the opportunity to learn English and to live in the US, Germany, and England. After I retired, I learned more about the Japanese history especially focusing on Nara and Kyoto to become a historical specialist of the Nara area. I now live in Ikaruga town in Nara prefecture, where the UNESCO World Heritage, Horyuji temple is located. I regularly offer guides on the Fujinoki tumulus, which is located near the Horyuji temple. It contains very interesting Archaeological findings from the end of the Kofun Period. Recently, there are many foreign tourists who come to Japan, and I hope they enjoy learning about the culture and history of Japan. I would like to help tourists have a broader and deeper understanding of the Japanese culture and that is the reason why I decided to become a tour guide to help and support their experience in Japan. Nara is the place where Japan started. The capital was located in Asuka, Fujiwara and Nara before it moved to Kyoto. Therefore, there are many places to visit in Nara to trace the original history of Japan, which I have a depth of knowledge. Let’s explore the roots of Japan together!!

Japan

Yoshiharu K.

Hi! I'm Yoshiharu. Please call me Yoshi. Yoshi means "good" in Japanese! I'm a good man (^^);;;. I was born in Kyoto but I lived there 3 months. Then my family moved to Osaka and I grew up in Osaka. So I am almost Osakan. When I was young, my hobby was traveling by bicycle. I went cycling around most part of Japan except Shikoku. In my family rule, Shikoku is in bad direction because my grand father died just after his Shikoku pilgrimage. So I want to have a cycling tour not only in Kyoto (coming soon!) but also all part of Japan someday. I am interested in Japanese history. I am a National Certificated Guide. And I have "Kyoto Tourism Culture Certification 3rd grade", "Osaka Expert Certification 3rd grade", "Nara Concierge 2nd grade" and "Karuizawa Web test 3rd grade". So I have expert knowledge about Kyoto, Osaka, Nara and Karuizawa and common knowledge about Kobe. Besides I like gadgets, so I can guide you DenDen town in Osaka. When you have a chance to visit Kyoto or Osaka or other city in this area, please contact me anytime and join my tour! I'll be looking forward to seeing you, spending wonderful time with you.

Japan

Kazue K.

Hello! My name is Kaz, a tour guide from Kyoto. I was born and raised here, studied in Osaka, and became fluent in English after studying abroad in Canada. My experience there made me appreciate Japan’s beauty and cultural differences, inspiring me to share Kyoto with people from around the world. I started as a volunteer guide for foreign friends when I was student, and now work professionally to show more people Kyoto’s charm. On my tours, I’ll take you to great spots and share insights into Japanese culture, customs, and the unique mindset of Japanese people. I look forward to guiding you!

Japan

Koichi W.

Hi! I'm Koichi. I was born in Osaka, I studied in Kyoto when I was a university student. Now I live in Shiga next to Kyoto. I am a national government licensed tour guide. I have been guiding about 160 groups over the past twelve months. I usually guide my customers mainly in Kansai region including Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Kobe and Shiga by public transportation systems. Well, I am curious about Japanese history, especially the history of Japan's ancient times since I was raised next to the world biggest mausoleum of the ancient Emperor called "Nintoku" in Sakai city Osaka which has just become one of the world cultural heritage sites. I dug out some ancient earthen ware vessels around there when I was a primary school student like the adventure archaeologist “Indiana Jones"　(It’s our secret!!). That was my hobby. Now, one of my hobbies is outdoor activities such as mountaineering, kayaking, skiing and others. So I would like to take you to some good places where you can enjoy Japanese unique nature. I love to guide foreign visitors from all over the world. I think it is my calling or heavenly given job. Let's go and enjoy together! I hope to see you soon.

Japan

Nikki K.

I am a Kyoto City Certified English Interpreter Guide (ranked top in the oral exam!). Having lived 30 years in seven countries—including 15 years in the US, Canada, and the UK! So, I bring both a truly global perspective and Japanese hospitality to make your time in Japan unforgettable! Before guiding in Japan, I worked as a licensed tour guide in New York City and appeared on a national Japanese TV program as a field reporter, introducing local life and culture in NYC. My career has always centered on caring for people in English-speaking roles: as a British Airways flight attendant, a medical interpreter at an international clinic, and an administrator at a UN international school with students from 65 countries. I’m also a direct descendant of Hijikata Toshizō, one of Japan’s legendary “last samurai,” and was raised with a deep respect for traditional culture and the spirit of bushido. Originally from Tokyo, I guide in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara and Uji where I have both historical knowledge and personal experience. I look forward to welcoming you and sharing Japan in a warm, personal way!!

Japan

Akari Y.

I have started guiding in the Kansai area since 2023. I am passionate about introducing the history of Japan. I am happy to introduce guests from overseas to the Japanese culture established by our predecessors. I will introduce Japanese culture, food, cuisine, sake, nature, manga, spiritual culture, history, Buddhism, Shinto, Shugendo, pilgrimage paths, and other topics of interest. Let me introduce myself. I was born in Osaka and grew up in Osaka and Kyoto. I have lived in the U.S., China, and Australia when I was young.

Japan

Yosshi S.

Thank you for visiting my page. I’d love to guide you to an ancient capital city with over 1,000 years of urban development history and a 100-year film history. I grew up in OSAKA and studied in KYOTO. Then, I worked in TOKYO and Osaka as an urban planning expert for national and local governments for 20 years. I have been striving to create cities where residents can live safely and comfortably and where visitors are attracted by their charms. Quitting my career, I became a freelancer and a National Licensed Consulting Engineer (Urban and Regional Planning). I inspect urban development sites and film locations at home and abroad, and post about the charm of these picturesque towns on social media (90 cities in 30 countries up to now). Present-day Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara formed a metropolitan area centered on the Imperial Palace from the 7th to the 19th centuries, serving as the political, economic, and cultural center. Residents still cherish their connections with local temples and shrines, continue to host local events, maintain traditional lifestyles, and protect their cultural heritage. These three cities offer a unique landscape each season: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, autumn foliage, and snowy scenery in winter. They are also easily accessible within a 1-hour train ride, with an international airport (KANSAI) and seaports (OSAKA, KOBE). I am not only a National Licensed Guide Interpreter but also a General Travel Service Manager. I create an ideal customized tour for you, combining your preferences with my knowledge of transportation options and sightseeing spots. I look forward to hearing from you.

Japan

Jose david V.

Hello there! I am hoping you're having a great day!! My name is Jose, born and raised in Spain (Barcelona) and I have been living in Japan for the last 10 years, first it was Hiroshima that I called home, for the past few years it has been Kyoto. I have a wide knowledge of japanese culture, it's social life and it's manners, as well as the most impressive monuments, streets, parks and temples. I love the city of Kyoto and all of the wonders it has to offer to the people whom decide to visit it, from the Fushimi Inari temple to the Nijo Castle. It is a surprising city with combines the best of modern day activities with the reminiscence of old Japan. I would like to share my experience in Japan with you, so you have the greatest experience possible.

Japan

Tomoe S.

Hello! My name is Tomoe. I'm a national licensed guide interpreter(English). I made my page here, TripleLights in October 2018. Thank you for finding me. I was born and grew up in Otsu,Shiga, which is the next city of Kyoto. I graduated from the university in Kyoto and lived there for four years due to my husband's job. I like history and like to visit temples in Nara. My hobby is to plan trips and have visited many cities and towns in Japan and abroad. One of my favorite places is the AIRPORT!! I have enjoyed meeting and guiding people from abroad, to sightseeing spots in my country. I really want many people from abroad to enjoy visiting many places and have wonderful experiences in my country. I'll be really happy if I can have such experiences with you!! Please tell and ask me if there are any places which you want to visit and anything which you want to do in my country. I'll plan the trip only for you. I am cheerful and always positive. I like to talk with people. I would like to talk with many people from many countries. Please tell me about your country, too!! I'm looking forward to seeing you!! * If you want, I will take you back to your hotel (within the time or with the extra hourly rate) Or, I will show you how to go back to your hotel when we finish the tour. * If you want, I will give you some advice about what to and where to eat your lunch/dinner.

Japan

Kenji M.

Hi I'm Kenji I have a government license of tour guide interpreter in English. I was born and raised in Kyoto, an old capital of Japan over one thousand years So I'm very familiar with many sightseeing spots and attractions of the city Kyoto is a fascinating and picturesque city drawing lots of foreign tourists every year I can show you around not only popular historical sites and relics but also its various attractions such us Zen silent meditation, traditional sweets cooking, kimono-clad walking and so on. I can also provide tailored tours fitting to your liking. I like a famous Zen phrase "Ichigo Ichie" meaning "Treasure every encounter for it will never recur" So I always try to enjoy guiding every tourist with my best hospitality. Zen concepts have greatly influenced many aspects of Japanese culture I will explain some of them and allow you to explore Zen world through some of my tours Please contact me any time. I'm looking forward to seeing you and spending wonderful time with you. See you soon !

Japan

Rick I.

My nick name is Rick and Japanese name is Ryoichi. I was born and grew up in Kyoto. Kyoto has so many sightseeing spots based on its 1000 year history. I will propose you the "must see" spots from local eyes not only temples & shrines but also alternative side of Kyoto. As Kyoto certified English guide, I will guide you with high hospitality for your satisfactory stay in Kyoto. 1. For the first visitors I will prepare the tour with selection out of the spots as Nijo-castle, Imperial Palace, Nishiki-market, Gion amusement quarter, Arashiyama area and some temples and shrines of World Cultural Heritage Sites based on your request and taste. 2. For the visitors who want to see more spots than regular tours I will prepare some unique tours like visiting Fushimi area for Sake brewery and riding classical boat, visiting some traditional handicrafts ateliers, enjoying traditional performing art, etc. Please make any inquiry for your preferred type of Kyoto guiding without hesitation. I would be happy to propose you with the type of tour that makes your visit in Kyoto unforgettable one. Credentials: National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter (EN01767) Kyoto City Licensed English Guide (EN00004) 2nd Grade of the licensing examination on knowledge of Kyoto history & culture

Japan

Yuta I.

Hi everyone! My name is Yuta! Here are some of my special features: ①I speak German and English: I can communicate effectively in both languages. ②Professional Photographer: I capture beautiful moments during our tours. ③Expert in Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara: I know these areas inside and out! ④Social Media Influencer: Over 10,000 Instagram followers, with a total of over 10 million views on my reels! Thanks for checking out my profile. I've been living in Kyoto for over 4 years, and I love exploring and sharing the city's amazing history and culture with people from all over the world. During university, I spent over a year traveling around Europe, which helped me become fluent in English and German. I studied at the University of Leipzig in Germany and got great experience through an exchange term there. My wife is German, so I'm always in an international environment, learning about different cultures. Besides guiding tours, I'm also a social media influencer. I love sharing interesting content about Japanese and German life, connecting with people globally, and showing off the beauty of Kyoto. I offer custom tours for individuals and groups, making sure each experience is unique and special. With my deep knowledge of Kyoto's historical sites and architecture, I'll make your visit to Japan's ancient capital fun and enlightening. During our tour, I'll share cool historical insights and stories about the places we visit, helping you understand Japan's past and its connection to the present. I'm friendly and attentive, so I'll make sure you have a great time in Japan! Feel free to message me if you have any questions about your trip to Japan! Hope to see you soon on one of my tours!

Japan

Toshiyo O.

I was born and raised in Kyoto.Kyoto has a lot of things to see and experience. Kyoto is an ancient city with a lot of world heritage. I am happy to show you both traditonal aspects of Japan and modern things. I use public transportation and I am good at walking. Also I am very flexible.

Japan

Tomoya H.

Looking for trekking guide? It's me! I was born in Osaka, and grown up under nature loving parent, and spent a lot of time on hiking, fishing, camping and skiing in my youth. I have been guiding trekkers from north to south Japan, as well as oversea trails. Even when I'm not at work, enjoy trekking trails in Rokko area which is just by the door. I'm a JMGA (Japan Mountaineering Guides Association) certificated Trekking Guide (stage II), and you'll be enjoying the trail without any issues and worries with me.

Japan

Yui M.

Hello there, I'm Yui. I'm original from Hyogo and now I live in Osaka. I know Kansai area(Osaka,Kobe,Kyoto) quite well. I will organize the tour every single guests.if you have any request like what would you like to do, what are you interested about etc.... please feel free to ask. I will charge 5,000yen- per hour. I will charge extra for group( more than 4people). It will be super helpful for cover my transport fee during the tour. I love traveling, walking, circling, clime mountains, diving, snowboard etc... I love to spend time in the nature a lot. I had experience to do working holiday in New Zealand, Australia and Ireland. I was barista when I was in Australia. I am flat white addicted. I love to meet people from all over the world and share the culture. I traveled more than 25 countries so far and I had such an amazing trip in there. I went to South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Cambodia,Thailand,Malaysia,Australia,NewZealand,Italy,France,Spain,Gibraltar, Germany, Netherland, Czech public, Poland, Hungary, Croatia, England, Scotland, Ireland ,Russia, Canada, Hawaii.Philippins and Vietnam Next destination will be Indonesia,Greece or Turkey. Well will see happens. I wish I can introduce amazing part of Kansai area and you will have great time with me. I used to work at Universal Studio Japan so the map is in my head. I am available to do some guide or help in there if you require. I'm looking forward to receive the message from you and hopefully see you soon. Thank you.

Japan

Lisa W.

Hi everyone! My name is Lisa. Thank you very much for checking out my profile. I am originally from Osaka, Japan, and completed my Bachelor’s Degree from Kyoto Prefecture University in architecture. During my stay in Kyoto I volunteered as a tour guide for foreign visitors. After graduation I moved to Tokyo and worked in the marketing and promotions field. On weekends I continued to work as a tour guide volunteer in Tokyo. I have also studied at the University of California, Irvine and worked for a tech company in Anaheim California. It was great oppotuniay for me to see Japan from foreigner's perspective. My happiness for meeting new people and learning my own culture through guiding foreign visitors kept increasing and that made me decide to become a professional tour guide. I offer tailor-made tours for individuals or groups. I have met a lot of wonderful people through tour guiding and look forward to the many more friends I will make. My strength is the stock of Japan's historical and architectural knowledge, which I believe makes your Japan experience fun and interesting especially when you are visiting Japan's old capitals. During my tour I will share with you historical contents of places or structures you are visiting so that you can understand the reason why you meet present Japan. I have friendly and mindful nature which will make your Japan experience greater! Please feel free to message me if you have any question about your Japan trip! Hope to see you soon in my tour. Best, Lisa

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